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Flavorful Bourbon Peach BBQ Chicken Thighs Easy Sticky Glaze Recipe

bourbon peach bbq chicken thighs - featured image

A quick and easy bourbon peach BBQ chicken thighs recipe featuring a sticky, flavorful glaze that locks in juiciness and offers a perfect balance of sweet and smoky flavors.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 2 pounds)
  • 2 medium fresh peaches, diced
  • 1/2 cup bourbon (120 ml)
  • 1/3 cup brown sugar (70 g)
  • 1/2 cup ketchup (120 ml)
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (30 ml)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt to taste (start with 1 teaspoon)
  • Black pepper to taste (start with 1/2 teaspoon)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (30 ml)
  • Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes

Instructions

  1. Rinse the chicken thighs under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper. Set aside while making the glaze. (5 minutes)
  2. In a medium bowl, combine bourbon, diced peaches, brown sugar, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes if using. Whisk until well blended. (10 minutes)
  3. Transfer the mixture to a small saucepan over medium heat. Simmer gently for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally until thickened and peaches soften. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. (15 minutes)
  4. Preheat grill to medium-high heat (around 375°F / 190°C). If using a grill pan, heat over medium-high and brush with olive oil. (5 minutes)
  5. Brush chicken thighs lightly with olive oil. Place skin side down on the grill and sear for 5–7 minutes until skin is crispy and golden. Flip and cook the other side for another 5 minutes. (10–12 minutes)
  6. Using a basting brush, generously coat chicken with bourbon peach glaze. Continue grilling, flipping and brushing glaze every 3 minutes to build a sticky, caramelized layer. Total cooking time about 30–35 minutes depending on grill and chicken size. (20 minutes)
  7. Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Juices should run clear and glaze should be thick and sticky. (2 minutes)
  8. Remove chicken from grill and let rest for 5 minutes to redistribute juices. Serve with extra glaze if desired. (5 minutes)

Notes

If flare-ups occur, move chicken to indirect heat to avoid burning glaze. Keep a spray bottle of water handy for flare management. Use a meat thermometer to ensure safe cooking temperature. Let chicken rest after grilling for juicier meat. Frozen peaches can be used if fresh are unavailable; thaw and drain excess juice before use. For gluten-free, ensure ketchup and brown sugar are gluten-free or substitute accordingly.

Nutrition

Keywords: bourbon peach BBQ chicken, sticky glaze chicken thighs, grilled chicken recipe, summer BBQ chicken, easy chicken thighs